This book is a compendium of symbols with sacred meanings, perfect for anyone looking to find a meaningful tattoo design, professional tattoo artists or anyone interested in folklore and religion.

It gathers some of the most popular and lesser known signs from around the world in a comprehensive and accessible guide. Looking at each symbol's history and origins, it unveils the cultural and spiritual significance, alongside any folklore to give each image context, and showcases different tattoo styles for those seeking inspiration or just a fresh approach to a traditional design.

The directory includes 75-100 lead symbols and themes, reflecting the way these develop and emerge across different folklore and religions. Each of these has an accessible list of meanings as well as a list of key uses and context to where the sacred origins lie.

Alison Davies is an author, professional storyteller, and writer from Nottingham. She has penned over 60 books, including The Mystical Year and The Lunar Year (Quadrille) and Tales Behind Tarot, Goddess Stories and the forthcoming Floral Folklore (Quarto Books). An expert in the field of folklore with a keen fascination for mythology and ancient cultures, she is also an established voice on the subject of signs and symbols, with books including the popular Charms & Symbols: How to Weave the Power of Ancient Signs and Marks into Modern Life (Octopus Books).